As Egypt transitions into winter, the government has set new operating hours for shops, restaurants, and workshops. The new schedule, which started on November 1, 2026, aims to regulate the working hours of commercial activities across the country. According to the rules governing commercial operations, different activities have distinct schedules. The winter hours are designed to balance the needs of citizens with the need to manage energy consumption.
Shops and malls will open from 7:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM on regular days. However, on Thursdays and Fridays, as well as on official holidays, their operating hours will extend until 11:00 PM. This allows citizens to shop and enjoy leisure activities during the longer winter evenings. The extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays also aim to support the economy by giving people more time to engage in commercial activities.
Restaurants, cafes, and bazaars will operate from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM on regular days. On Thursdays and Fridays, as well as during holidays, they will stay open until 1:00 AM. This schedule allows these establishments to cater to the needs of citizens who prefer to dine out or socialize in the evenings. Additionally, restaurants and cafes can continue to offer delivery and take-out services 24/7, without adhering to the regular closing times.
Workshops and craft businesses within residential areas will operate from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the winter months. This schedule is designed to minimize disruptions to residential areas while still allowing these businesses to operate. The government has considered the needs of both businesses and residents when setting these hours.
Some establishments, such as grocery stores, supermarkets, bakeries, and pharmacies, are exempt from the new closing times. This is due to the essential nature of the services they provide, which often require extended operating hours to meet citizen needs. Other activities, such as fruit shops and wholesale markets, may also operate outside the standard hours due to their specific requirements.
The new winter hours aim to regulate the operation of commercial and service activities while taking into account the unique needs of each sector. By extending operating hours on certain days, the government hopes to boost economic activity and provide citizens with greater flexibility. At the same time, the regulations aim to promote energy efficiency and responsible consumption.
The implementation of winter operating hours is part of the government's efforts to manage energy consumption and promote sustainable practices. By adjusting the schedules of commercial activities, the government aims to reduce energy waste and minimize the strain on resources during the winter months. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the environment and the economy.
Key points
- Shops and malls will operate from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM on regular days, extending to 11:00 PM on Thursdays and Fridays.
- Restaurants and cafes will operate from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM on regular days, extending to 1:00 AM on Thursdays and Fridays.
- Workshops and craft businesses will operate from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the winter months.
